They were revenge killings, prosecutors claimed, after Dr. William Hunter -- Thomas' father -- and Brumback fired Garcia from the Creighton pathology department in 2001.

The jury began deliberations Tuesday after closing arguments from the state -- led by Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine and his chief deputy Brenda Beadle -- and the Mottas, a pair of criminal defense attorneys from Chicago. Omaha attorney Jeremy Jorgenson partnered with them on the case.

The judge polled the jury about the verdict and they said yes across the board.

One juror appeared close to tears; others were stone-faced.

Family, spectators and media filed out of the courtroom with mixed reactions to the verdicts.

"I was confident all along the citizens would sift through the evidence and the theatrics," said Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer.

Garcia is eligible for the death penalty. If voters decide to bring the death penalty back in Nebraska, a panel of three judges will decide whether to sentence him.

Late Monday afternoon, Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert offered her reaction to the verdict.

"The Hunter, Sherman and Brumback families have waited years for this guilty verdict. I hope the end of the trial provides solace for these families. The verdict represents the thorough investigation by the Omaha Police Department task force created by Chief Todd Schmaderer, the strong case presented by Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine and his staff, and the thoughtful work of the jury."